tree of the gods
- noun
:
árbol de los dioses
- The tree of the gods is often planted along city streets for its ability to thrive in polluted air.
Examples
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The tree of the gods features sumac-like leaves and produces flowers with a strong, sweet scent.
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Some gardeners avoid the tree of the gods because of the strong scent of its flowers.
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Despite its beauty, the tree of the gods is considered invasive in many areas.
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The tree of the gods is known for its rapid growth.
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Many cities plant the tree of the gods along streets.
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The tree of the gods is often planted in urban areas due to its resistance to air pollution.
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Some people appreciate the tree of the gods for its ability to grow quickly in difficult conditions.
Synonyms
A fast-growing tree from China with large leaves and smelly flowers
A fast growing tree from China that often grows in cities and spreads quickly
A fast growing Asian tree that spreads quickly and grows well in cities
Surface Forms
Morphology
The phrase is compositionally interpretable: a B1 learner who knows 'tree' and 'god(s)' would naturally infer a tree associated with gods or a sacred tree. However, in this entry the phrase names a specific botanical species with particular characteristics (a lexicalized common name), so the precise referent and attributes are not predictable from the constituents alone.
Etymology
Tree of the gods may come from old temples and gardens where this tall, fast-growing tree seemed to reach up toward the gods. Because it can grow in poor city air but has sweet yet strong-smelling flowers, people used the name for the 'hardy street tree' we know today.
